More than 45 children and teens from Palm Beach County gathered recently for a weekend of sharing stories and paying tribute to those they have loved and lost. Camp SeaStar, held annually at the Everglades Youth Conservation Camp in the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Center, is an adventure-based bereavement program facilitated by Hospice of Palm Beach County (HPBC).The weekend retreat welcomes South Florida children ages 5 to 18 who have experienced a loss and received bereavement support through Hospice of Palm Beach County. The camp allows time for sharing, support, celebration and fun, offering children a secure space and environment where they can meet other children like themselves who have lost a loved one and help them recognize that they are not alone in their feelings of grief. Camp SeaStar is provided at no charge, due to donors support.
"There's a tremendous curative factor in this group modality, in the sheer numbers. It really helps," said Hospice of Palm Beach County's Senior Director of Clinical Services, Regina Di Pietro.
Due to HPBC's recent expansion into Broward County, the camp will also be offered to Broward children this July.While it may look like a traditional camp with children fishing, canoeing and toasting s'mores over a bonfire, every activity at Camp SeaStar has been designed with a specific purpose and cumulative effect towards the children's healing process.
"The counselors who created this program are highly skilled at integrating counseling support into the activities so that the process is virtually seamless to the children," said Di Pietro.
Upon arrival, campers are asked to pick an animal that represents traits or goals that they hope to work on during the weekend."I drew a moose and a bear," said 10-year-old Brooke Dixon. "The moose is for confidence and the bear is for strength in myself."
Three years ago, Brooke's mother died suddenly of a heart attack and Brooke came to this year's Camp SeaStar to again face her grief, but this time, a support system embraced her.
"I've made so many friends here," said the fourth grader about her favorite camp memories. "All the other kids here lost someone, too. It makes me realize I'm not alone."
For more information about Camp SeaStar and Broward Camp SeaStar, contact Supportive Care Manager, Chelsea Johnson at 561-227-5178 or email cjohnson@hpbc.com.Since 1978, HPBC has cared for nearly 70,000 patients nearing their end of life. As a nonprofit organization, they care for all who want and qualify for services, regardless of ability to pay. HPBC's multi-cultural staff respects all religions and cultural traditions.
For more information, visit www.hpbc.com.
Sun Sentinel
Palm Beach Edition
April 11, 2012
